Presidents Day Towing Prep: Chevrolet Traverse Edition

Getting trailer wiring and brake controllers right before spring. Applied to a 2018-2023 Traverse, here is what that looks like.

Cooling System

Watch for a temperature gauge that climbs in traffic and drops back on the highway. GM’s long-life coolant is generally rated for 5 years or 150,000 miles on the first fill and 5 years or 100,000 miles after that. Hoses and the surge tank should be inspected annually once past 80,000 miles.

Exhaust and Emissions

Watch for a diesel that regenerates far more often than it used to. Not scheduled. Converters are warranted separately under federal emissions rules, so check coverage before you buy.

Heating and Air Conditioning

Watch for vents that will not switch from defrost to floor. Cabin air filter every 12,000 to 15,000 miles, or annually. In North Texas with construction dust and cedar season, annually is the honest number.

Electrical and Charging

Watch for the auto stop-start feature quietly deactivating itself. Batteries in Texas heat routinely give up between three and five years. Test annually after year three, before the first cold snap.

The Short Version

Radiators: Engine, tow package and rear-A/C content all change the radiator and hose part numbers. Have the VIN ready.
Catalytic converters: Emissions equipment varies by state of original sale on some model years.
Cabin air filters: Rear climate content, heated and cooled seats, and tri-zone systems all change the parts list.
Batteries: Vehicles with stop-start often use two batteries. Confirm which one you are replacing before ordering.

Ordering is easiest if you have the VIN in front of you. Head to our Chevrolet OEM parts catalog to shop by vehicle, or search for Traverse parts to go straight to a part.